Visit Orlando CEO Casandra Matej said the tourism industry is on pace or increasing compared to the previous year, with hotel demand up 1% through June. Orlando has long been a major tourist destination, and despite economic uncertainty and rising living costs travel remains a priority for many families. Many visitors are shortening traditional weeklong vacations to three or four days and opting to drive rather than fly to reduce costs. At the Grove Resort, located six miles from Disney World, guests receive free water park admission, complimentary transportation to Disney, and kitchen-equipped condo rooms that allow meal preparation. In-state visitors rose 3.4% in 2025, according to Visit Orlando, while Central Florida residents continue to dominate staycation participation. Visit Orlando is promoting special hotel deals for Central Floridians during the August-September period and offering Magical Nights discounts tied to the Magical Dining promotion, which runs through September 30. Theme parks such as Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens and Legoland Florida will host Halloween events, including trick-or-treating and haunted attractions, as noted by industry analyst Dennis Speigel. Analysts say the trend may continue as consumers adjust spending habits.